UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, commends the Republic of Moldova’s commitment to safeguarding refugees and urges increased support for both refugees and the communities hosting them

Foto: Președinția Republicii Moldova

(Chisinau, 19 January 2024): During his two-day visit to the Republic of Moldova, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, commended the commitment of the government of the Republic of Moldova and its people in protecting and assisting refugees from Ukraine seeking safety in the country. This acknowledgement took place during a meeting with the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees conducted his third official visit to the country on the 18th and 19th of January.

The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, expressed her gratitude for the support provided by UNHCR in managing the humanitarian crisis following the onset of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

The President mentioned that despite limited resources, the Republic of Moldova has firmly demonstrated solidarity with Ukrainian citizens seeking refuge in the country. As the war in the neighbouring country persists, the head of state reiterated the commitment to providing temporary protection for refugees in accordance with European standards.

“For nearly two years, the government and people of Moldova have shown remarkable courage, determination, and warmth in welcoming, protecting, and assisting refugees from Ukraine. They are an example to the world. Despite the strong global support received, the current situation demands an even greater level of solidarity from the international community, matching Moldova’s unwavering commitment. I appeal for much more support – humanitarian, development and bilateral – for refugees of course, but equally for Moldova and Moldovans.” Expressed Filippo Grandi.

The Republic of Moldova, both its people and government, have played a crucial role in providing a secure environment for those displaced by the war. Beyond warmly welcoming refugees, Moldova has taken significant legislative measures, granting temporary protection to Ukrainians and with-it ensuring access to services in the country.

Furthermore, Moldova actively engaged in the Global Refugee Forum, demonstrating its commitment by making nine pledges to support refugees. Its exemplary efforts have earned international recognition, showcasing Moldova as a positive example, even among larger nations. These commitments encompass a broad spectrum, emphasizing refugee inclusion, safeguarding child rights, promoting gender equality, mitigating the risk of gender-based violence, and ensuring the delivery of comprehensive services for refugee survivors.

Earlier this week UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, asked for continued international support for the Ukraine Situation Refugee Response Plan (RRP) to enable providing much-needed assistance for Refugees from Ukraine seeking safety in neighbouring countries including the Republic of Moldova.

During his visit, the High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, joined by UNHCR’s Regional Director for Europe, Philippe Leclerc, and UNHCR’s Representative to the Republic of Moldova, Francesca Bonelli; met with Moldova’s Minister of Labour and Social Protection, Alexei Buzu at Centrul de plasament pentru Persoane Vârstnice și Persoane cu Dizabilități. The High Commissioner also met with Minister of Internal Affairs Adrian Efros at UNHCR’s registration centre. Partner organizations CRS and CDA provided updates on operations, including UNHCR’s cash assistance program and legal support for refugees.

The High Commissioner also joined a discussion with the international community and the World Bank, and visited community initiatives and local infrastructures in Palanca. UNHCR has been actively partnering with local authorities hosting refugees to enhance services for both the refugee population and the host communities.

Note to editors

UNHCR in Moldova has been supporting government-led efforts to provide protection and support to refugees since establishing a presence in the country in 1997. UNHCR significantly expanded its operations in the country in late February 2022 in response to the arrival of refugees from Ukraine and joined the Government of Moldova in co-leading the interagency humanitarian response aligned with the Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP) for the Ukraine Situation.

Key figures about the refugee response in the Republic of Moldova

More than 126,000 refugees received cash assistance since 24 February 2022 (over USD 146M disbursed to refugees)
Around 177,000 refugees have been supported with legal assistance since 24 February 2022
Around 2,300 refugees are now hosted in 44 refugee accommodation centres supported by UNHCR, while others live in host communities.
Ten Community Centers are operational in the country, providing safe spaces and activities for refugees and Moldovans alike. These centers are pivotal in facilitating community engagement and support, embodying a commitment to connectivity and empowerment.